Ralf Little is the longest-serving detective on Death in Paradise (Picture: BBC Picture Archives)
Death in Paradise has finally unveiled who will play the lead detective in the BBC crime drama after Ralf Little’s departure.
Don Gilet, best known for his role as the villainous Lucas Johnson in the soap EastEnders, will be stepping into the 44-year-old actor’s shoes.
He will play Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson who arrives on the idyllic island of Saint Marie from London and isn’t overly pleased with his new surroundings.
Detective Wilson will make his debut in a feature-length Christmas episode later this year before a brand-new series in 2025.
Don, 57, has recently begun filming in Guadeloupe, alongside returning Death in Paradise regulars Don Warrington, Shantol Jackson, Ginny Holder, Élizabeth Bourgine and Danny John-Jules.
Speaking about his new role, the Shetland star said: ‘Being offered the new lead role in Death in Paradise feels like a deeply loved and incredibly precious jewel has been placed in my hands. This is a big show, with a big heart and the love continually grows for it.
Don is playing the new detective in town- but he isn’t best pleased with his surroundings (Picture: Philippe_VIRAPIN)
Don has been a fixture on our screens, including roles in Shetland (Picture: Ken McKay/ITV/REX)
‘It is my intention to never lose sight of that and to remain grateful, humbled
and dedicated. Even during those testing times when every sinew is screaming at me to run off the set and dive into the sea, swimming pool or an ice-cold beer – whichever happens to be closer at the time.’
Ralf’s final outing as DI Neville Parker was in March
Death in Paradise has been a fan favorite since it began airing on the BBC in 2011.
During its thirteen series, viewers have seen four male leads cracking cases in the sunshine – Ben Miller, Kris Marshall, Ardal O’Hanlon and Ralf.
More to follow.
Death in Paradise is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
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